The professor opened the door.
"Well, Morris, all right here?" was Ishmael's cheerful greeting.
"All right, sir, now that you have come. We have been a little anxious within the last hour or two, sir; especially the judge, who is here."
"Judge Merlin here?"
"Yes, sir. He came over to wait for you. And the two young gentlemen are also here, sir. They came back after tea. I heard them say to the judge that they thought it quite likely you would have some last things to say to them to-night, and so they would wait."
"Quite right. Morris. Now take my horse around to the stables and then return as fast as you can," said Ishmael, as he passed the professor and entered the office.
The judge and the two young clerks occupied it.
The former was walking up and down the floor impatiently. The latter were seated at their desks.
The judge turned quickly to greet his young friend.
"Oh, Ishmael, I am so relieved that you have come at last. I have been very anxious for the last few hours."